Potential Problems With Toilet Replacement (And How to Avoid Them)

Toilets are the unsung heroes of every household. Yes, they help eliminate waste, but did you know that these porcelain thrones have increased human life expectancy by 20 years over the last 200 years? According to the non-profit organization GlobalGiving, accessible toilets help improve hygiene worldwide and prevent the spread of disease and harmful bacteria.

A broken toilet in your home can also lead to the spread of bacteria which can be harmful for you and your family. Replacing a toilet with a brand-new one sounds like an easy fix, right?

Well, there’s a small list of potential problems with toilet replacement. Understanding these concerns will help you stay prepared for any future toilet replacement issues.

At Monkey Wrench Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric, we have decades of combined knowledge in the world of toilets. We don’t just replace toilets throughout the Los Angeles area; we also rely on toilets ourselves.

We understand the importance of a working toilet in your household, so we compiled a list that will leave you better informed on newly replaced toilets, whether you install them yourself or hire a professional plumber. With knowledge of different possible issues with toilet replacements, you will feel more confident when it’s time to replace the toilet in your home.

List of Problems with Toilet Replacement

For most people, replacing a toilet is a one-and-done thing. Unfortunately, for some homeowners, some issues can still be present or can appear on their new toilet.

While the chances of issues occurring are small, being prepared can help you feel confident to make the right decisions and avoid these issues.

1. Replaced Toilet Isn’t Sealed to the Floor

Every step in replacing a toilet must be done carefully, especially when applying a new wax seal. The wax ring is located underneath the toilet and is designed to cover and seal the waste pipe and toilet flange.

If the wax ring isn’t sealed correctly, it can cause wastewater to leak from the bottom. Leaking water can lead to mold around the floor. A poorly sealed wax ring can also cause foul odors to stink up your bathroom.

If you smell sewage or see water leaking, then you may need a new wax ring. Make sure to replace the old and and let the new wax ring seal entirely by letting it rest. Make sure you or a plumber apply caulk to the space between the toilet’s base and the floor to prevent any leaks.

2. Recurring Clog in New Toilet

A new toilet means no more clogs, right? No, that’s not always the case. Everyone experiences the dreaded clogged toilet at least once in their life.

Your replaced toilet can still get clogged if there are issues with the main sewer line system. A faulty toilet can clog up, but problems with a drainage pipe will almost always cause a clog, even in a new toilet.

Contacting a plumbing company for a camera inspection during a toilet replacement may be helpful. A camera inspection can further determine what is causing the clog and what can be done to repair it.

3. Loosely Screwed Replaced Toilet

Loose screws are never a good thing. You can potentially deal with a loose toilet if you or a plumber don’t tighten the screws.

If a toilet base isn’t screwed tightly, it can lead to a wobbly toilet. If your new toilet is unstable, it may break the seal from the wax ring underneath. A broken wax seal will cause stinky aromas and water leaks in your bathroom.

The screws holding the toilet in place are on the side under a cap. Remove the cap to double-check that the bolts are tightened.

That isn’t the only issue; in the next section, we look at another one of the potential problems with toilet replacement.

4. New Toilet Keeps Leaking

If you notice water near your toilet, it may be leaking water. Make sure to inspect all around your new toilet to find where the leak is coming from.

Water could be leaking from any one of the following sources.

• Cracks: Your new toilet may leak water from a crack somewhere on it. Toilets can be fragile, so handling with care can help avoid cracks.
• Loose Water Valve or Connection: The valve and connection are the two components that pull water into the toilet tank. If this section isn’t tightened, then it will leak water.
• Badly Sealed Wax Ring: As mentioned in a previous section, if a wax ring isn’t sealed with the toilet flange, water will leak out from it.

Once you identify where the leak is coming from, you should be able to address the issue with a plumbing company.

How Do I Know When It’s Time to Replace or Repair My Toilet?

You will know when to replace your toilet based on some visible and common signs. One way to help yourself identify toilet issues is by understanding the components of a toilet and how they work.

If your toilet is experiencing any of the following issues, then you should consider replacing it.

• Leakage: First, identify where the leak is coming from. The leak could be from the water supply valve, water supply connection, a crack somewhere on the toilet, or from the toilet’s base. A toilet is made up of different parts that work together, so there’s a chance you may have to replace a part or an entire toilet.
• Doesn’t Flush: If your toilet isn’t flushing, it could indicate something wrong with the flush valve assembly inside the tank which can be replaced. Worn-out rim jets can also prevent a toilet from flushing. A non-flushing may need new parts or a total replacement.
• Running Water: It is normal for water to flow from the tank to the bowl for a couple of seconds after flushing. If water continues to flow, it could mean the flapper valve inside the tank isn’t sealing and causing water to run. You can fix this issue by replacing the flapper but if it continues to happen, consider replacing your toilet or check for leaking pipe.
• Constant Clog: Everyone has previously dealt with a clogged toilet and quickly fixed it with a trusted plunger. Your toilet may be backed up for various reasons. If there’s a clog in the main line then it can be addressed there instead of replacing your entire toilet.
• Old Age: A worn-down toilet can lead to any of the issues mentioned above. Toilets can last between 25 to 50 years before they need to be replaced. If you don’t know how old your toilet is, then maybe consider getting a new one.

How to Ensure a Smooth Toilet Replacement Process

These nightmare scenarios involving toilet replacements aren’t too common, but they can happen to anyone. One of the best ways to prevent that is by becoming familiar with the different problems with toilet replacement.

New toilets aren’t always perfect, from leaks to wobbling and recurring clogs. Your awareness of issues with replaced toilets will empower you to not only appreciate your bathroom more but also keep up with its maintenance.

Not all toilet issues can be addressed on your own. That’s where Monkey Wrench Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric can assist. If you need some guidance on toilet replacement costs, then learn more about toilet replacement price ranges and factors. For further information you can book an appointment with us today or call us at (818) 213-1773!